Mercedes-Benz G-Wagens are great. They’re boxy, rugged, and can handle anything, but they’re not cheap. Even on the used market, it’s hard to find a deal on such an iconic car. That’s why you need to think outside the standard box. Instead, buy this box: a 1986 Suzuki Samurai playing dress-up as a G-Wagen.
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For just $15,500, you get boxy styling, off-road chops, and even Mercedes badges. It’s even badged “G13,” a reference to its 1.3-liter engine. The grille and tailgate are both dead ringers for a previous-generation G-Class, though I admit you sacrifice any luxury trimmings inside the car. But if there’s one thing I know about G-Wagen buyers, it’s that image is far more important than comfort.
And even ignoring the styling modifications, the Suzuki Samurai is a wonderful little off-roader. It’s more bare-bones than a modern G-Wagen, but its small footprint and lightweight body are great for bounding up trails. Fair warning, though: as the styling shows, this is not a stock example. It’s had a long and weird life, with an engine rebuild and 7000 flat-towed miles under its belt.
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